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Poisonous blue-green algae has been discovered at Pen y Fan Pond once again, Caerphilly County Borough Council has confirmed.

It is the fifth time in around three years that blue-green algae has been discovered at the pond, which is near Oakdale.

The council’s environmental health team has urged residents to ensure pets, particularly dogs, do not enter the pond water.

Should pets come in contact with the water, owners should wash the animal with clean water and seek precautionary advice from a vet, environmental health officers have said.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, occurs naturally in rivers, streams and lakes and can multiply and form ‘blooms’ during periods of hot weather.

The algae can produce toxins harmful to both humans and animals, causing rashes and irritation, and illness if swallowed.

Signage has been put up around the pond and regular inspections of the water will be carried out, the council has said.

It also said it will work alongside Natural Resources Wales to address the issue.

Anyone with concerns about this issue can contact the council’s environmental health team on 01443 811 355.